Seventh and eighth grade students at Allen Elementary have been exploring the exciting intersection of art, design, and technology through a hands-on 3D printing project. As part of their visual arts curriculum, students learned how artists and designers use digital tools to create functional, three-dimensional objects. Using the elements and principles of design, students planned and designed their own custom 3D-printed tic-tac-toe boards, thoughtfully considering form, balance, pattern, and user interaction. From sketching ideas to refining digital designs, students experienced the full creative process before seeing their artwork brought to life through 3D printing.
This project highlights how the arts in Kentucky schools continue to evolve while remaining rooted in creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. By integrating emerging technologies like 3D printing into the art room, students gain valuable skills that connect artistic thinking with real-world applications, including design, engineering, and manufacturing. Projects like this reinforce that the arts are not only expressive but also practical, collaborative, and future-focused—key components of a well-rounded education.
As an arts educator at Allen Elementary, I am committed to advancing arts leadership by providing students with meaningful, forward-thinking learning experiences that align with Kentucky Visual Arts Standards and celebrate the role of the arts in modern education. By embracing digital tools, project-based learning, and creative exploration, I strive to empower students to see themselves as artists, designers, and innovators. This work supports Kentucky’s ongoing celebration of the arts in schools and underscores the vital role visual arts education plays in preparing students for creative and critical engagement in an ever-changing world.
Cindy Artrip
Allen Elementary School
Floyd County
K-8
